Host of the dog activities, Mark Leishman, talks to a member of the Search and Rescue display team.

Plenty to learn for dog owners

AFTER the huge success of the 1999 Pet Expos in Auckland, Hamilton, Hastings and Christchurch, the nation's largest pet show is back this year for its fourth season. More than 125,000 visitors have been to the shows over the last three years and the positive response has been overwhelming.

The organisers, Dunkley's Ltd, are delighted with the recognition and support they have received from the NZ Kennel Club since the Pet Expos first began.

"It has significantly helped us recruit the dog clubs and agility groups which have made the Expos so successful," said sales manager Karen Mullaly.

Three Expos are planned for this year - in Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch. Each one is divided into separate sections for cats, dogs, and farm animals. Among them are the trade displays and stands with tropical fish, rabbits, guinea pigs, cage birds and other small animals. Charities such as the RSPCA, the Guide Dog Assn, and Search and Rescue is prominently featured throughout the Expos.

One of the most popular attractions is the dog hall. This is where the breeders and clubs show off their beloved animals to an interested audience. It is also an opportunity for them to educate the public, to make sales and to recruit new members.

Television personality Mark Leishman returning for his second year, hosting the dog activities which include breed displays, ribbon parades, agility demonstrations and displays of other canine sports. They are popular with the public and attract huge audiences. Other attractions include magic shows featuring doves, guinea pigs, a parrot and a disappearing rabbit.

Donkey and miniature pony rides will be available for children and equestrian displays cater for the young through to the not-so-young.

Show co-ordinator, Mr Rob Dunkley, says the Expos encourage good pet care and provide a wide range of products and services to keep your animal happy and healthy. Specialty pet foods, veterinary advice, kennels and catteries, healthcare products, bird aviaries, aquariums, dog and cat grooming, bedding and medical insurance are available for the household pet whether it be a purebred, moggie, or mongrel.

All products and accessories are for sale at special Pet Expo prices. The first year of the new century promises to be a very exciting one for the pet industry and the Pet Expos in particular.